October 9, 2013 + Two Great Gifts from God

by Saint and Emperor Justinian the Great

There are two greatest gifts which God, in His love for man, has granted from on high: the priesthood and the imperial dignity. The first serves divine things, while the latter directs and administers human affairs: both, however, proceed from the same origin and adorn the life of mankind. Hence, nothing should be such a source of care to the emperors as the dignity of the priests, since it is for their imperial welfare that they constantly implore God. For if the priesthood is in every way free from blame and possessed access to God, and if the emperors administer equitably and judiciously the State entrusted to their care, general harmony will result, and whatever is beneficial will be bestowed upon the human race.

+++

Glorification of St. Tikhon, the Apostle to America

Troparion, Tone 1

Chosen by God in a turbulent time, you glorified God in complete holiness, and attained greatness through humility. You showed forth the power of God through simplicity and piety. You laid down your life for the Church and her people, O Holy Confessor and Patriarch, Father Tikhon, pray to Christ God who Whom you were also crucified that He may save our souls.

Kontakion, Tone 2

A gentle manner adorned you; you showed kindness and compassion to those who repented; you were firm and unbending in confessing the Orthodox Faith and zealous in loving the Lord. O Holy Hierarch of Christ and Confessor Tikhon, pray for us that we may not be separated from the love of God which is of Christ Jesus, our King and Lord.